A new apple to pick.

The U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Co. is launching Skoal Apple Blend chewing tobacco, which combines premium tobacco with the flavor of apples. Company officials say that like all Skoal products, Apple Blend is made with premium, 100% hand-selected, American tobaccos. It is the latest in a line of new flavors from Skoal and follows last year's launch of Skoal Vanilla Blend. Skoal Apple Blend will be available at retail beginning June 21.

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"Skoal continues to be the flavor innovator in the moist smokeless tobacco segment, giving adult consumers exciting options they can only get from Skoal," says Jill K. Galowitz, vice president, brand management, for Greenwich, Conn-based USSTC. "The combination of apple flavor and smooth premium tobacco has a refreshing flavor that really lasts."

Skoal Apple Blend is available in FreshSnap cans with a guaranteed fresh until date stamped on the bottom. The product will be available nationally in all classes of trade. It will be supported by a direct mail campaign beginning in August and by point-of-sale materials and pre-pack retail displays that are designed to encourage awareness and trial. The product launch will also be heavily supported by a print advertising campaign in a full array of men's magazines including Playboy, Maxim, FHM, Stuff, Men's Journal, Outdoor Life, Road & Track and Golf.